With the passage of Proposition 67, California became the first state in the nation to enact a state law to ban plastic shopping bags. The passage of Proposition 67 does not change the implementation of the expanded reusable bag ordinance in Alameda County.

The Alameda County Waste Management Authority approved an expanded reusable bag ordinance for Alameda County. The expanded ordinance will apply to all stores and restaurants in the county, and will go into effect on May 1, 2017 for retail stores and November 1, 2017 for restaurants.

“By switching from expensive recyclable and compostable packaging to real dishes, I was able to save money and do the best thing for the environment. And right away customers started commenting on how happy they are with the changes!” Jena Davidson, Co-owner of Sacred Wheel, Oakland.

“ReThink Disposable has been a huge success for Doc’s of the Bay. The recommendations are working fabulously and we’re seeing benefits well beyond the $2,000 annual savings. The food looks better than it ever has and customer response has been really positive.” Brandon Smuke, Truck Manager of Doc’s of the Bay Food Truck, Emeryville.

As the second largest employer in Union City and the largest flexible packaging manufacturer on the West Coast, Emerald Packaging proudly embraces responsible leadership. The company has many innovative sustainable initiatives and frequently introduces innovative tools and practices to the industry. In 2006, Emerald Packing created the first compostable plastic package in the produce industry using plant-based, bio-degradable (PLA) film. In 2012, they initiated advances in “field to fork” food product traceability with their packaging.